Optical Engineering Technician

Voyager Technologies • San Diego, CA

9d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Optical Engineering Technician provides hands-on technical support for the design, assembly, alignment, test, and integration of electro-optical and photonic systems within a fast-paced defense and aerospace environment. Working under the direction of senior optical engineers, this role is critical to meeting program milestones, maintaining quality standards, and ensuring the performance of precision optical instruments, laser systems, and imaging assemblies. The ideal candidate brings 6 years of demonstrated technician experience in an optics or photonics manufacturing or R&D environment, strong bench skills, and the discipline to operate within cleanroom and controlled environments.

Requirements

• Associate degree in Electro-Optics, Photonics, Electronics Technology, or a related technical discipline; or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Coursework or training in geometrical optics, laser principles, or optical instrumentation preferred
• Minimum 6 years of hands-on experience as an optical or electro-optical technician in a defense, aerospace, or precision optics manufacturing environment
• Demonstrated proficiency in optical alignment techniques, interferometric testing, and precision assembly of opto-mechanical systems
• Experience with fiber optic systems, free-space laser systems, or infrared imaging systems is strongly preferred
• Prior experience supporting MIL-SPEC programs or government-contracted programs
• Proficient with optical test instruments: interferometers (Zygo, ESDI), autocollimators, spectrophotometers, power meters, beam analyzers
• Skilled in reading and interpreting optical and mechanical engineering drawings, GD&T, and assembly procedures
• Experience with cleanroom operations at ISO Class 5–7 and associated contamination control practices
• Familiarity with ERP/MES systems (SAP, Oracle, or equivalent) for work order tracking
• Basic proficiency with MS Office Suite; experience with data reduction tools (Excel, MATLAB, or LabVIEW a plus)
• Active U.S. Secret security clearance required at time of hire
• Ability to obtain Top Secret clearance preferred
• Must be a U.S. Citizen

Nice To Haves

• Experience with LIDAR, electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensor systems, or directed energy systems
• Familiarity with Zemax or Code V optical design software for review of optical models
• IPC-610 or J-STD-001 certification for soldering and electronics assembly
• Experience with laser safety protocols per ANSI Z136.1 and serving as a Laser Safety Officer (LSO) assistant
• Six Sigma Green Belt or equivalent continuous improvement training

Responsibilities

• Assemble and align precision optical components including lenses, mirrors, beam splitters, prisms, and filters per engineering drawings and assembly procedures
• Integrate electro-optical subassemblies into larger sensor or imaging systems, ensuring mechanical and optical tolerances are maintained
• Perform fiber optic splicing, connector termination, and cable routing for photonic subsystems
• Support installation and integration of laser systems, detectors, and associated opto-mechanical hardware
• Execute optical performance tests including wavefront error, MTF, transmittance, focal length, and centration measurements using interferometers, autocollimators, and profilometers
• Operate optical test equipment such as Zygo interferometers, Shack-Hartmann sensors, spectrophotometers, power meters, and optical spectrum analyzers
• Conduct functional and environmental testing (vibration, thermal, shock) in accordance with MIL-STD-810 and program test plans
• Document test results accurately in test travelers, data packages, and engineering notebooks; flag non-conformances and initiate corrective actions
• Perform optical surface cleaning, inspection, and minor fabrication tasks including polishing, cementing, and coating inspection
• Support rework and repair of returned assemblies, troubleshooting alignment and performance issues to root cause
• Fabricate and modify opto-mechanical fixtures, jigs, and tooling to support assembly and test processes
• Maintain first-article inspection records and dimensional inspection reports using CMM, micrometers, and optical comparators
• Follow AS9100 and ISO 9001 quality management procedures; support internal audits and corrective action processes
• Ensure compliance with ESD, FOD, and cleanroom protocols (ISO Class 5–7)
• Complete work orders, assembly travelers, and material handling documentation accurately and on time
• Collaborate closely with optical engineers, mechanical engineers, and program managers to support design verification and qualification activities
• Provide technical input during design reviews and producibility assessments from a technician's perspective
• Mentor junior technicians and support cross-training initiatives within the optical assembly team
• Support customer and government source inspections as required

Benefits

• Flexible Time Off (FTO)
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their families
• Flexible, affordable gym memberships with 12,700+ options nationwide
• 401(k) retirement plan with a 50% company match on contributions up to 8%
• Company wellness programs that support physical and mental well-being
• Additional voluntary benefits and employee support resources

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree